Friday, November 09, 2007

A Call for Proposals: Towards Carfree Cities Portland 2008

TOWARDS CARFREE CITIES VIII, JUNE 16-20, PORTLAND, OREGON, USA

CALL FOR PROGRAM PROPOSALS

The Towards Carfree Cities conference series brings together people from around the world who are promoting practical alternatives to car dependence. Professionals, activists, and community leaders alike will share how they have been building sustainable transportation systems and promoting the transformation of cities, towns and villages into human-scaled environments rich in public space and community life.

As a part of the carfree movement, the conference seeks to find creative, practical solutions to the environmental, economic, community, and public health problems that arise from car-oriented urban policies, culture, and development. It looks to promote local, diverse, and sustainable neighborhoods that are accessible and pleasurable to everyone in the community.

World Carfree Network and Shift are now seeking program proposals on the theme of "Rethinking Mobility, Rediscovering Proximity".

Proposals are requested in the following categories:

- Research abstracts- Presentations of programs (eg, government, non-profit, or private sector initiatives)- Presentations of World Carfree Network members' organizational activities- Panelists on the following topics: a) alternatives to the private automobile; b) closures of parks or city streets to cars, c) carfree towns, housing developments, or shopping districts; d) experiences of carfree individuals and families, e) World Carfree Day events - Interactive workshops, activities, and tours- Films- Works of art

Proposals of 1-2 pages in length, in English, shall include a title and description of the proposed activity, any equipment, time, or space requirements, relevant personal information or experience, and full contact details. Discounted entry for presenters.

Send all proposals and questions to:proposals@carfreeportland.org

or mail to: ShiftPO Box 6662Portland OR 97228 USA by December 15, 2007.